Planning your wedding day includes dozens of important choices. One of the most personal—and impactful—is whether or not to do a first look. The choice can shape your timeline, your photos, and how you feel throughout the day.
So… should you do a first look on your wedding day?
This guide will walk you through what a first look is, the pros and cons, and how to decide what’s right for your celebration.
What Is a First Look?
A first look is a private moment before the ceremony when the couple sees each other for the first time. This is usually captured by your photographer. While the most common version is between the bride and groom, there are other options, too. Some couples choose first looks with their parents, bridal party, or even pets!
It’s a newer tradition—but it’s quickly becoming a favorite for modern couples.
First Look vs. Traditional Ceremony Reveal
The Traditional Way
Traditionally, couples do not see each other until the ceremony. The “aisle reveal” is often filled with emotion and suspense. It’s the big moment where all eyes are on you. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime feeling rooted in timeless tradition.
The Modern First Look
A first look gives you a quiet, personal moment before the ceremony. It can feel more natural and intimate. And let’s be honest—it often helps calm the nerves. Whether it’s full of laughter, tears, or both, it’s a moment that many couples remember forever.
The Benefits of Doing a First Look
You Get More Time Together
One of the most beautiful parts of a first look is that it gives you more time with your partner. Wedding days fly by. By seeing each other earlier, you create space to breathe and connect before everything begins.
Nerves? A First Look Helps
Feeling anxious? You’re not alone. Most couples have pre-ceremony jitters. A first look often melts those nerves. That one deep breath together can shift the tone of your entire day.
Your Timeline Opens Up
When you do a first look, you can get many of your photos done before the ceremony. This includes:
- Couple portraits
- Wedding party photos
- Immediate family shots
That means more time later to enjoy your guests—and maybe even your cocktail hour.
Better Lighting for Photos
Natural light makes a big difference in your wedding photos. If your ceremony is in the evening or during winter months, a first look allows your photographer to take portraits in daylight. That soft, golden light? It doesn’t last forever.
More Emotional, Candid Moments
With just the two of you (and your photographer quietly in the distance), a first look can be incredibly emotional. You’re free to react naturally—cry, laugh, hug, or just breathe together. Those moments often turn into your favorite photos.
Potential Downsides of a First Look
It’s Not the “Traditional” Path
If you’ve always dreamed of that moment at the altar, a first look might not feel the same. Seeing your partner for the first time while walking down the aisle can’t be replicated. For some couples, that reveal is everything.
Your Day Starts Earlier
Doing a first look means you need to be ready earlier in the day. That includes hair, makeup, outfits, and florals. If mornings aren’t your thing, or your schedule is already packed, this can be a challenge.
You Might Need Touch-Ups
Let’s be real—tears and hugs are part of the magic, but they can also mess up your makeup or outfit. If perfection is your goal, plan for a quick refresh after your first look.
Questions to Help You Decide
How Important Is Tradition?
Do you want your wedding day to feel classic and traditional, or are you open to a more modern flow? Your vision for the day plays a big part in this decision.
What Does Your Timeline Look Like?
Talk with your wedding planner and photographer. If your ceremony starts late or your venue has limited daylight, a first look might be the best option for stunning photos.
Do You Want to Attend Cocktail Hour?
One big bonus of doing a first look? You’ll likely have time to enjoy cocktail hour. If mingling with guests is a top priority, this is worth considering.
Are You Comfortable Showing Emotions in Public?
If one or both of you feel nervous about being emotional in front of a crowd, a private first look can create a safe space. It’s your chance to be fully present without hundreds of eyes watching.
Creative First Look Ideas
First Look With Parents
Want to honor a parent or guardian? Doing a first look with a loved one is a powerful and emotional way to include them. It also makes for heartfelt photos you’ll treasure forever.
First Look With the Bridal Party
Seeing your wedding party’s reaction to your look is always fun and full of energy. This can help set the tone for the entire day and hype you up before you walk down the aisle.
First Touch Instead of a First Look
Not sure about a full reveal? Consider a “first touch.” Hold hands around a door or corner, exchange letters, or say a prayer together—without seeing each other. You still get the emotional connection, without the full reveal.
Real Couple Stories
“Doing a First Look Was the Best Choice We Made”
“I was SO nervous leading up to the ceremony. When we did our first look, I immediately felt calm. It was just us—laughing, crying, soaking it all in. Plus, we got to spend cocktail hour with our friends and family. Zero regrets.”
– Katherine & Daniel
“We Waited Until the Ceremony—And It Was So Worth It”
“We decided to keep things traditional. When I saw my partner at the end of the aisle, everything else faded away. That moment hit me harder than I expected. I’ll never forget it.”
– Leon & Katie
Photographer’s Advice: There’s No Wrong Choice
As a professional wedding photographer and filmmaker, I’ve captured hundreds of first looks—and just as many traditional reveals. My advice? Choose the moment that feels most meaningful to you.
If you’re unsure, chat with your vendor team. We can walk you through your timeline and help design a flow that feels natural, intentional, and stress-free.
No matter what you choose, your day will be beautiful. Because it’s yours.
So… Should You Do a First Look?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
Choose a first look if you:
- Want a private, emotional moment
- Hope to spend more of the day together
- Prefer to finish photos before the ceremony
- Want to enjoy cocktail hour with guests
- Feel anxious and want to calm your nerves early
Skip the first look if you:
- Dream of the aisle reveal
- Value tradition deeply
- Don’t mind a tighter post-ceremony timeline
- Prefer emotions to unfold in the moment
Need Help Deciding?
Whether you’re leaning toward a first look or not, we’re here to help. As your photographer and storyteller, my team and I will guide you through your day with intention and care.
Let’s create a wedding experience that reflects you—raw, real, and deeply personal.
📩 Ready to chat timelines and photos? Contact us here to begin planning your perfect day.
Featured Vendors
Celebrations Bridal & Prom – Dresses In photos 5, 6 & 9
Venues Pictured: Hummingbird House, Melrose River Club, Glimmering Oaks, Red Ridge Receptions, Enchanted Ranch, Milltown New Braunfels, Oaks Ever After
Comments